Extract The Facts: Tooth Extraction Recovery

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Tooth extraction recovery, how long it takes, what to expect and how to cope.

Removing a tooth is a relatively routine procedure and while there is some discomfort following the treatment, for many people, the thought of the experience is often worse than the reality. Tooth extraction recovery time varies depending on individual, the removal procedure and the location of tooth, for example, patients will usually recover faster from an incisor extraction than one who’s had a wisdom tooth removed.

Simply Surgical

There are two basic types of tooth removal – simple and surgical – of which the former tends to be the most common. Teeth that have already pierced through the gum and started to emerge into the mouth can frequently be pulled out using a simple procedure involving forceps. A surgical extraction is required when either the tooth hasn’t yet grown into the mouth, or because the tooth, whilst needing removal, is just not amenable to a routine simple extraction.

Sleeping through it

To some people, the procedure can be quite daunting, especially for those with dental anxiety; these people may require an additional level of help. Should there be a need, at Marriott and Hand, experienced and compassionate dentists will ensure effective sedation and anaesthetic keep you as comfortable as possible throughout the treatment.

Tooth Extraction Recovery

After having a tooth removed, the first 24 hours are the most important both in terms of controlling the post-extraction discomfort and facilitating healing. It will take some time for the local anaesthetic used during the procedure to wear of; before it does so, dosing up on Panadol, Nurofen etc, will help to control the discomfort. It is best to keep on with these drugs for the rest of the day.

Here are a few useful tips on how to expediate your recovery:

Rest and recover – for the first day or so, be kind to yourself and let your body rest. Over the next few days, increase activity gradually.

Chill out – If you are suffering from swelling in your face or jaw, apply an ice pack to help alleviate the problem, applying it only for 10 minutes at a time.

Softly, softly – Eat soft foods or liquids only for the first 24 hours while the extraction site heals

Gentle touch – When brushing or flossing, be gentle and avoid the area to prevent bleeding and reduce the chance of infection.

Ease off – ONLY AFTER THE FIRST 24 HOURS: Swilling your mouth with a warm saltwater rinse will help prevent infection and ease the discomfort.

Rest Assured

After a couple of days, you should start to feel much better and much of the discomfort should have dissipated. If you do experience severe discomfort similar to a toothache, call your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. During the tooth extraction recovery time, there is a possibility of a dry socket developing, where the blood clot over the affected site either gets dislodged or fails to form. This can be extremely painful and requires professional attention.
Three days into your recovery period, you may still have some swelling around the extraction site itself. Careful oral hygiene combined with regular saltwater washes are recommended by dentists to lessen the risk of infection. After a week, you should be comfortable and able to enjoy your normal routine.

Call the Tooth Fairy

If you have any concerns about your dental health, are experiencing persistent tooth ache or unhappy with your smile, get in touch with one of our expert consultants at Marriott and Hand today. With a range of dental treatments available and expert advice and care, our dental experts make sure you have something to smile about.